The Magical Countertenor
Biraj Barkakaty’s bewitching voice brings to life the full spectrum of opera’s greatest countertenor roles.
Meet Biraj Barkakaty
As a native Londoner living in Washington, D.C, Biraj Barkakaty has captivated opera lovers on both sides of the pond.
Biraj Barkakaty is a professional countertenor that uses his vocal, visual, and theatrical talents to embody opera's most magical roles.
His extensive repertoire spans Baroque opera to new music and his incredible versatility encompasses character roles throughout the gender spectrum.
Performance Highlights
With over 10 years of professional singing experience, Biraj's engagements have included several notable performances:
Vasu in the world premiere of ‘Ganga’ at the Wandsworth Arts Festival and National Opera Studio
Tirsi in Marco de Gagliano’s ‘La Dafne’ with the European Opera Academy in Bauska, Latvia
Creating the role of Kenny Fuller in the world premiere of Francis Trester’s ‘Keepers of the Light’ at the Nahant Music Festival
the title role of Hercules in Handel’s ‘The Choice of Hercules’ with Collegium Musicum Riga in Latvia
Opera Credits
Biraj has enchanted opera audiences in both leading and supporting roles. Several of his standout roles include:
Arthur Bell-Nicholls in the world premiere of Brontë The Opera at the Grimeborn Festival.
the title role in the world premiere of Cavalli’s Xerse with Ensemble OrQuesta in London.
Second Messenger in the UK premiere of Domenico Zipoli’s Loyola at the Grimeborn Festival
Third Calavera in the European premiere of Frida at the Leeds Opera Festival with the Northern Opera Group
Oberon with the Aspen Music Festival and International Vocal Arts Institute in Tel Aviv.
Sacred Music
Highlights from Biraj’s experience performing sacred music for British royalty include the marriage of Prince Charles and Camilla Parker-Bowles and Queen Elizabeth's 80th birthday celebrations.
Biraj has also served as an Alto Lay Clerk with the professional choir of St George's Chapel at Windsor Castle, performing on many royal occasions, tours, and recordings. He has also served at the Washington National Cathedral as a professional staff singer.
Achievements
Biraj's illustrious career is punctuated by a series of accolades for his unparalleled artistry, including:
Finals Alternate | Handel Aria Compeition 2013
Semi Finalist | Classical Idol 6, Rochester Oratorio Society 2012
Award Winner | Sophie’s Silver Lining Fund’ 2006